The Trinity Health Of New England Community Champion Award, an initiative sponsored by Community Health and Well-Being, recognizes and celebrates colleagues who go above and beyond by generously giving their time and talents. Whether they’re making a difference in their own neighborhoods or within our service areas, Trinity Health Of New England believes it is important to shine a spotlight on their impacts.
Fawn Bowidas was selected as Johnson Memorial Hospital's Community Champion Award honoree.
The honorees for the inaugural Community Champion Award are:
- Johnson Memorial Hospital – Fawn Bowidas
- Medical Group – Cathy-Ann Rogers
- Mercy Medical Center – Michael R. Sears
- Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital – Paige McCullough
- Saint Francis Hospital – Crystal Miller
- Saint Mary's Hospital – Paul Gladding
Fawn Bowidas, Coordinator, Patient Access, Johnson Memorial Hospital, exemplifies what it means to go above and beyond for her community. From leading the East Windsor High School Booster Club to organizing countless fundraisers, she ensures students have safe, healthy and memorable experiences. Her efforts support everything from Safe Graduation events to enrichment programs, athletic team and teacher appreciation initiatives, often filling gaps not covered by school funding. Through her dedication, Fawn empowers students and families to prioritize wellness, fosters lifelong healthy habits and creates opportunities that strengthen the entire community.
Cathy Rogers-Webley, Medical Assistant, Trinity Health Of New England Medical Group, Rocky Hill Primary Care, has a passion for volunteerism that shines through in her work with countless programs that uplift and support others. From serving at My Portion Food Pantry and ministerial outreach at Apple Rehab Nursing to teaching Sunday school and mentoring children in homework clubs, Cathy dedicates her time to making a meaningful difference. She also volunteers with Gardner’s House, Inc., providing care and support for individuals affected by cancer. Cathy’s compassion extends beyond these roles -- her commitment to service reflects the heart of our Mission, improving lives and strengthening communities.
Cathy Rogers-Webley, Rocky Hill Primary Care, was chosen by the Medical Group as Community Champion honoree.
Michael Sears was selected as Mercy Medical Center's Community Champion honoree.
Michael Sears, RN, Assistant Nurse Manager, Medical/Surgical Units, Mercy Medical Center, has been a dedicated colleague at Mercy for over five years, consistently going above and beyond to support nurses and patients on the Med-Surg and Urology floors. Known for his calm, friendly demeanor and willingness to help, Michael exemplifies teamwork and excellence, whether responding to rapid response calls, assisting during Code Blue situations or proactively making rounds to offer help wherever it’s needed. His compassion and resourcefulness shine in critical moments, like when he swiftly assisted with urgent palliative care for a patient requiring a PCA pump, ensuring the highest level of care under pressure. Michael’s commitment to stewardship and patient well-being makes him an invaluable part of our team and a champion for the community.
Paige McCullough, CTRS, Recreation Therapist, Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital, leads the recreational therapy program with passion and purpose, creating adaptive opportunities that transform lives. From adaptive cycling, rowing and golf to inclusive community events, Paige ensures individuals with brain injuries and physical limitations can reconnect with confidence, wellness and joy. Her commitment goes beyond therapy. Paige organizes stroke awareness nights, advocates for patients and fosters meaningful connections between staff, patients and families. Through creativity and compassion, she delivers programs that promote safety, empowerment and lifelong health.
Paige McCullough, CTRS, is Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital's Community Champion honoree.
Paul Gladding was chosen as Saint Mary's Community Champion honoree.
Paul Gladding, Manager, Supply Chain, Saint Mary’s Hospital, has been the driving force behind the Hoop to Help basketball tournament in Waterbury for the last 10 years, partnering with the Community Tabernacle Outreach Center and the Police Activity League (PAL). What started as a local event has grown into a powerful community tradition. The 2025 tournament welcomed 30 teams and 600 youth participants, along with many families and spectators who come to cheer them on. Paul’s dedication goes far beyond organizing games. He ensures every participant receives a free meal, secures donations and creates a safe, welcoming space where young athletes can thrive. Over the past decade, his efforts have touched more than 4,000 youth, fostering connection, wellness and opportunity. Paul’s work embodies integrity, stewardship and justice, removing barriers so every child can participate and feel valued.
Crystal Miller, BSN, MA, RN, CRNI, NE-BC, Nurse Manager, Saint Francis Hospital, exemplifies what it means to lead with heart and purpose. For more than 46 years, she has been a tireless advocate for community health and well-being, championing initiatives that improve lives and advance equity. As Chair of the Internal Review Board at Saint Francis, Crystal ensures ethical, impactful research, while also serving on local boards and committees to uplift neighborhoods and drive meaningful change. Her leadership has shaped programs like Food as Medicine, expanded language access for patients and guided the development of Saint Francis’ health equity plan. Beyond her professional roles, Crystal invests her time in outreach, revitalization projects and events that bring people together.
The Community Champion Award will be presented annually. The honorees each received a charitable donation made in their name to a nonprofit of their choice that aligns with Trinity Health Of New England’s Mission and Core Values.
Saint Francis' Crystal Miller, BSN, MA, RN, CRNI, NE-BC, was selected as the hospital's Community Champion honoree.